Colossae Ancient City The ancient city of Colossae, located in the historical region of Phrygia, lay approximately 120 miles from Ephesus, along a major trade route connecting Ephesus to the Euphrates. It was one of three early Christian communities established in the Lycus Valley. Compared to its neighboring cities, Colossae endured more hardships, especially due to frequent earthquakes. The city of Laodicea was positioned about 9 miles to the west-northwest, while Hierapolis lay around 12 miles to the north. Although Colossae was the first among them to be granted city status, over time, Laodicea and Hierapolis gained prominence, becoming renowned as centers of healing and pilgrimage. What we know about Colossae today is mostly derived from archaeological findings such as coins, and accounts written by ancient historians. The famed Greek historian Herodotus described it in the 5th century BC as a "large city of Phrygia," while Xenophon also portrayed it as both sizeable and affluent. However, during the Hellenistic period, rivalry with Laodicea and Hierapolis gradually led to a decline in Colossae's significance. While the dominant ethnic group in Colossae was Phrygian, evidence from the Letter to the Colossians indicates the existence of a notable Jewish community. By 62 BC, records show that there were at least 11,000 adult Jewish men living in the area, with Laodicea functioning as the regional center. These Jewish inhabitants were the descendants of 2,000 families relocated from Babylon around 213 BC by Antiochus III. Although the Apostle Paul addressed two letters to the believers in Colossae, it's likely that he never visited the city in person. In one of his messages, he expressed his care by writing, "I want you to know how much I am struggling for you and for those at Laodicea, and for all who have not met me personally" (Colossians 2:1). Although Colossae holds considerable biblical and historical importance, the site has yet to undergo any official archaeological excavation. The visible remains of the city can still be seen on the southern side of the Lycus River. Surveys of the area have identified structural remnants including a fortified wall, a stone-lined pit to the west, ruins atop an eastern acropolis, and the remains of a cemetery to the north of the river. If you have questions or need more details about the Ancient City of Colossae, feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] or simply contact us through Whatsapp. We’ll be happy to assist you as soon as possible.